Great question! For our annual planning, I like to start with a big-picture review of the past year—what worked, what didn’t, and where we want to grow. Before meeting with the team, I outline draft goals for revenue, profit, and operational improvements, so we have a clear direction.
In our team sessions, we celebrate wins first to set a positive tone, then share high-level goals like growth targets and key initiatives. I involve office staff to represent the team, gathering their insights on challenges and opportunities—they often see things I don’t! Transparency is important, so I share goals that motivate, like how growth benefits them (better tools, new opportunities) without overwhelming them with too much financial detail.
We track key metrics to measure success—things like client retention, job profitability, and team productivity—and focus on small, actionable steps to hit big goals. It’s all about breaking it down and keeping everyone aligned. The most important thing? Consistency in revisiting those goals throughout the year and celebrating milestones along the way.
Would love to hear how your planning sessions work!